Incontinentia Pigmenti (cont.)
IN THIS ARTICLE
When to Seek Medical Care for Incontinentia Pigmenti
Incontinentia pigmenti is often diagnosed in affected children when they are newborns because of the presence of a characteristic rash. Once incontinentia pigmenti is diagnosed, the baby should be promptly seen by an ophthalmologist (a doctor who specializes in treating conditions of the eye).
Exams and Tests for Incontinentia Pigmenti
An ophthalmologist puts drops in the baby's eyes to dilate the pupils and then carefully examines the retina, especially the retinal periphery. If the ophthalmologist cannot fully see the whole retina, an additional examination with the baby under general anesthesia (EUA) may be advised.
Because brain damage is usually accompanies by retinal damage, people with retinal disease should also be examined for the presence of brain damage. People with seizures or other evidence of brain involvement should have more frequent retinal examinations, often under anesthesia. Using anesthesia offers the ophthalmologist optimal visualization of the peripheral retina.
Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 2/1/2016
Must Read Articles Related to Incontinentia Pigmenti
Patient Comments & Reviews
The eMedicineHealth doctors ask about Incontinentia Pigmenti:
Incontinentia Pigmenti - Patient Experience
Did your child have incontinentia pigmenti? Tell us about your experience.